Steven Gerrard believes England have a bright future, despite last night’s defeat.
The 32-year-old Liverpool midfielder became only the sixth player to reach 100 England caps when he led the team out in Stockholm.
England fought back from a goal down to lead 2-1 before manager Roy Hodgson made five changes as Zlatan Ibrahimovic took control of the match.
Crystal Palace starlet Wilfried Zaha was waiting to come on when the Sweden captain struck to give the home side a 3-2 lead before a magical fourth goal.
Gerrard (above) said: “There is no reason to be down — there are more reasons to be optimistic with some of the individual performances and how we controlled the game for large parts. I’m sure the manager will be really happy with the character we showed when we went behind.
“We kept fighting and we got ourselves in front against a tough team who were well organised in front of their 50,000 crowd. For three-quarters of the game we looked like we were in control of the match and going on to win. I think the substitutions disrupted us but that happens in friendlies.
“We have just got to hold our hands up and say an individual performance won them the game.”
Gerrard revealed he will present the shirt he wore on reaching his personal milestone to the key figure who has guided him through his career. “The one I wore, I will give it to my dad,” said Gerrard. “He has been with me since day one and showed me fantastic support so it will be a nice Christmas present for him.”
